Wholesale and Retail Trade (WRT)

In Malaysia, Wholesale and Retail Trade (WRT) refers to the sector of the economy involved in the buying and selling of goods at various stages of distribution. This includes wholesalers who purchase goods in bulk from manufacturers or importers and sell them in smaller quantities to retailers or businesses. Retailers, on the other hand, sell goods directly to consumers through physical stores, online platforms, or other channels.
The WRT sector in Malaysia is diverse and encompasses a wide range of businesses, from small shops to large hypermarkets and online retailers. It plays a significant role in the economy by contributing to employment, consumer spending, and the overall GDP growth. Regulatory frameworks and policies governing WRT ensure fair business practices, consumer protection, and market stability within Malaysia’s dynamic retail environment.
Unregulated Services Sector (USS)
The Unregulated Services Sector (USS) in Malaysia encompasses economic activities operating outside formal regulatory frameworks or exempt from specific regulatory requirements. It includes small-scale enterprises, informal businesses, and certain professional services not subject to stringent licensing or monitoring compared to regulated sectors. USS contributes to economic flexibility and employment but may pose challenges in areas like consumer protection, labor standards, and tax compliance.

How to apply for WRT & USS
Wholesale & Retail Trade (WRT)
- Determine Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP), which typically includes being a Malaysian citizen or having a Malaysian partner if you are a foreigner.
- Business Entity Registration: Register your business entity with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) if you haven’t already done so. This includes obtaining a business registration number (BRN).
Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents such as:
- Copy of business registration (Form 9, 24, and 49 from SSM).
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A) of the company.
- Copy of identity card or passport of directors and shareholders.
- Proposed business plan outlining your business activities, target market, and premises details.
- Complete Application Form: Obtain and complete the WRT application form from KPDNHEP or their website. Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete.
Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with all required documents to the nearest KPDNHEP office or online portal.
Processing and Approval: Wait for your application to be processed. The duration can vary depending on the completeness of your application and workload at KPDNHEP.
- Compliance Inspection: Once your application is approved in principle, KPDNHEP may conduct a compliance inspection at your business premises to ensure it meets regulatory standards.
- Receive Approval: Upon successful inspection and compliance verification, you will receive your WRT license.
Unregulated Services Sector (USS)
Business Entity Registration: Determine the type of business entity you want to register (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, or private limited company).
Prepare Required Documents:
- For a sole proprietorship or partnership:
- Copy of identity card (IC) or passport of the owner(s) or partner(s).
- Business name (if applicable).
- Business address details.
- For a private limited company (Sdn Bhd):
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A) of the company.
- Copy of identity card (IC) or passport of directors and shareholders.
- Company name approval (if applicable).
- Business address details.
- For a sole proprietorship or partnership:
- Complete Application Form: Obtain and complete the relevant application form from the SSM website or their office.
- Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with all required documents to the nearest SSM office or through their online portal.
- Processing and Approval: Wait for your application to be processed. This typically involves verification of documents and approval of the business registration.
- Receive Business Registration: Once approved, you will receive your business registration certificate from SSM. This certificate serves as proof of your business’s legal existence.
- Compliance with Local Authorities: Ensure compliance with local municipal and tax authorities. Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain other licenses or permits specific to your industry.
- Additional Considerations: Keep your business registration certificate and other relevant documents safely, as they may be required for banking purposes, opening business accounts, and entering into contracts.